MIKEL ARTETA has been dealt a major blow with close ally and Arsenal chief Edu Gaspar reportedly set to QUIT the club.
The highly-regarded sporting director has played a key role in transforming Arsenal from past contenders into serious title challengers. However, according to the *Mail*, Eduโs tenure at the Emirates appears to be coming to a close.
Reports suggest he has been in discussions with Arsenalโs higher-ups following a restructuring of major positions.
Although his reasons remain undisclosed, Edu has reportedly chosen to step down from his backroom role.
A former two-time title winner and member of Arsenalโs Invincibles, Edu returned to the club in 2019, where he supported Arteta in reshaping the squad. High-profile names such as captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil were moved on.
Meanwhile, new fan favorites like Martin Odegaard, William Saliba, and Declan Rice have been signed under his leadership.
Consequently, Arsenal finished as runners-up to Manchester City in the Premier League title race over the last two seasons.
Eduโs departure follows a recent 1-0 loss to Newcastle at St Jamesโ Park on Saturday. Arsenalโs next fixture is set for Wednesday, a Champions League clash against Inter Milan.
Manager Arteta is expected to address questions about Eduโs exit in tomorrowโs press conference.